GABRIEL'S 1st Temple Trip

St. George Utah Temple

Dedicated 6 Apr 1877, Rededicated 11 Nov 1975. The oldest operating temple of the Church.

Gabriel had his first temple baptisms at the St. George temple in Utah today. He actually went up last night with the Young Men and spent the night in a hotel. Brandon was also with him. We're glad that he was able to go since his dad couldn't be there. (Dad is one of the counselors in the Young Men, but he is still in San Antonio, TX.) He was very sad that he missed this landmark moment. He called Brandon and told him, "Please take the camera and get me a lot of pictures. Please make sure you don't forget. I want to be able to see my boy at the temple for the first time." And, you know what Brandon did? He forgot.

As a matter of fact, that wasn't the only thing forgotten that morning. I had told the kids to get all of the clothes washed the night before. That was their assignment while I was at work. (I'm assistant manager at Payless.) Did they? No. When I left on break to come get them and take them to their meeting point, I found out that they didn't have clothes. We had to speed to the Wal-Mart right behind our house and buy new ones. Needless to say, I was very irritated. I tried very hard to keep my composure because I knew the events were setting the tone for their temple experience. (Temple attendance seems to always bring some challenge. Satan's way, right?) I knew I'd have to have my "responsibility and accountablility" talk with them later. Their departure was not the time. Although, I sure felt like giving it to them at that moment! (I will confess, though, I did utter a few comments of disappointment. But, the bulk of what I wanted to say would have to wait.)

When the boys finally got home from their trip, I was at work. On my break, I called to find out how it went. Brandon said it was the best one he had ever been on. I had to wait to talk to Gabriel because he was napping. After I arrived home, I approached Gabriel and asked how it was. He just gleamed from ear to ear, while smiling impressively and nodding his head. He said he learned that it was the oldest temple and that he could be safe there. He said it felt so good. He assured me he had a wonderful experience. He had been a little scared to go because he felt he didn't know what to do. So, in our conversation he confirmed that he received all the help he needed and everyone was so nice. He felt great peace.

Fortunately, his scout master (which, by the way, is the most awesome leader our kids have ever had) took pictures. I'll have to upload them when I get them from him. (They're here!)

I'm so glad my boys partook in a rewarding, spiritual experience. It's a reminder that I need to attend the temple more often.

Their testimony meeting was held on the temple grounds sitting on the grass outside. Brandon said he cried the whole time. He was asked to give the prayer and he cried through that too.

Breakfast in the hotel

They watched the new Joseph Smith video at the Visitor's Center. They all cried through this as well.

Leaders left to right: Perkins, Maxfield, Bishop Hinrichsen, Baker, Nihipali, and Alexander. (Not all of their YM leaders came--They have sooo many!) These men are absolutely AWESOME! Our boys have never been surrounded by so many solid brethren. All of them are returned missionaries, vibrant leaders, and spiritual giants. They are each so involved. None of them ever slack their callings. I have never seen anything like it. We feel like we are in zion. Our boys are truly blessed!